Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, around the ages of 17 to 25. However, not everyone experiences wisdom teeth in the same way, and for some, they can become a source of significant oral health problems.

At The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, Dr. Clay Thames, and Dr. Darren Alexander specialize in the diagnosis, management, and surgical removal of wisdom teeth. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of wisdom teeth, including their development, potential issues, and the surgical removal process. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the farthest point in the back of the mouth. These teeth are a vestigial part of the human mouth, meaning they were once crucial for chewing tough, raw food but are no longer as necessary due to modern diets and cooking methods.

Development of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last to develop, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. They start as small tooth buds beneath the gums, gradually moving upwards through the jaw. In some cases, they may emerge without issue, but more often than not, wisdom teeth become impacted or cause complications due to a lack of space in the mouth.

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the teeth to come through properly. This can lead to them becoming stuck under the gums or even growing at odd angles, potentially pushing against neighboring teeth.
• Eruption: Some individuals may experience wisdom teeth erupting through the gums without causing problems, while others may have difficulty with eruption, which can result in pain, swelling, and even infection.

The Function of Wisdom Teeth

Historically, wisdom teeth were essential for early humans to chew a diet that consisted mostly of raw plant material, nuts, and tough meats. These teeth helped grind food into smaller particles for digestion. Over time, as humans began cooking and eating softer food, wisdom teeth became less necessary, and many people now don’t have enough space in their mouths for them.

Common Problems With Wisdom Teeth in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS 

While wisdom teeth are a normal part of dental development, they can cause several issues. Many people experience problems with their wisdom teeth during adolescence or early adulthood. These issues often lead to the need for surgical removal. Below are some of the most common problems associated with wisdom teeth.

Impaction

When wisdom teeth are impacted, they cannot fully emerge through the gums due to a lack of space. This can result in painful swelling, infection, and possible damage to adjacent teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may cause:

• Pain and Discomfort: Impacted teeth often cause pain that radiates to the jaw, ear, and neck.
• Infection: The soft tissue around an impacted wisdom tooth is more vulnerable to infection, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pus discharge.
• Damage to Adjacent Teeth: An impacted wisdom tooth can exert pressure on the nearby second molars, which may lead to cavities or structural damage.

Infection and Inflammation

When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, bacteria can easily enter the gums around the tooth, causing infection. This can result in pain, swelling, and a condition known as pericoronitis. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and even into the bloodstream, leading to more serious health issues. 

Cysts and Tumors

In rare cases, wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These can cause bone loss and damage to the surrounding teeth. Although this is an uncommon problem, it highlights the importance of regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth. 

Crowding and Misalignment

If your wisdom teeth come in improperly, they may push against your other teeth, causing misalignment and potential crowding. This can interfere with the alignment of your bite and lead to long-term dental problems, including the need for orthodontic treatment. Contact us to learn more.

Symptoms That May Indicate Problems With Wisdom Teeth 

Wisdom teeth problems often arise in adolescence or early adulthood, and the symptoms may develop gradually. Here are some common signs that wisdom teeth may be causing issues:

• Pain in the Back of the Mouth: This is often the most immediate symptom. Pain may begin as a dull ache and progress to sharp, throbbing pain as the teeth push against surrounding structures.
• Swelling and Redness: Swelling in the gums or jaw is common when a wisdom tooth is impacted or infected.
• Bad Breath: A persistent bad taste or foul odor in the mouth can be an indication of infection.
• Difficulty Opening the Mouth: If you find it painful or difficult to open your mouth fully, this could be due to swelling around your wisdom teeth.
• Gum Tenderness: If the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth is tender or bleeding, it could indicate infection or inflammation.

How Wisdom Teeth Issues Are Diagnosed 

Diagnosis of wisdom teeth problems typically begins with a thorough evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander. The process generally involves the following steps:

Physical Examination

During a physical exam, your oral surgeon will assess the position of your wisdom teeth by looking at your gums and teeth. They may gently press on your gums to determine if the teeth are impacted or causing any discomfort.

X-Rays

X-rays are essential diagnostic tools for wisdom teeth issues. They allow the surgeon to see the exact position of your wisdom teeth in the jaw and check for any signs of impaction, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. In some cases, a panoramic X-ray may be required to get a complete view of your entire mouth. 

3D Imaging

In certain situations, 3D imaging may be used to get a more detailed and accurate view of your wisdom teeth. This type of imaging provides a comprehensive view of the jawbone and teeth, helping the oral surgeon plan the appropriate course of action for treatment.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: The Surgical Procedure

If your wisdom teeth are causing problems or are likely to cause issues in the future, our oral surgeon may recommend removal. The extraction of wisdom teeth is a common procedure that can be done in the office under local anesthesia or sedation. 

Preparation for Surgery

Before the procedure, our oral surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and discuss sedation options. Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area around the wisdom teeth, while sedation options may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s comfort level. 

The Extraction Procedure

During the procedure, our oral surgeons in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, will make small incisions in the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal. Once the tooth is removed, the surgical site will be cleaned, and stitches may be placed to help the gums heal. In some cases, dissolvable stitches may be used.

Post-Operative Care

After the procedure, patients will typically be given post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing. This includes guidelines on pain management, swelling reduction, and eating soft foods during the recovery period. Swelling and discomfort are common but usually subside after a few days. 

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Recovery from wisdom teeth extraction typically takes a few days to a week. Here’s what you can expect during the healing process:

Pain Management

Pain after the procedure is common and can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. Ice packs applied to the face can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and typically peaks within the first 48 hours. Bruising may also occur, but both symptoms should gradually subside.

Follow-up Appointments

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure that the extraction sites are healing properly and to address any concerns. Our surgeon will monitor your recovery and remove any stitches if necessary. 

When Wisdom Teeth Removal Is Not Necessary 

In some cases, wisdom teeth do not cause problems and do not require removal. If your wisdom teeth have fully erupted, are aligned correctly, and are not causing any discomfort or damage to the neighboring teeth, our oral surgeon may decide that no action is necessary. Regular dental check-ups are important for monitoring the health of your wisdom teeth, even if you are not experiencing any immediate issues. 

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth are a natural part of human development, but for many people, they can lead to significant oral health issues. If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or other symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, MS, can provide expert care. Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander specialize in the diagnosis, management, and removal of wisdom teeth, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and a smooth recovery. If you are concerned about your wisdom teeth, contact our office to schedule a consultation and discuss the best treatment options for you. our team at The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel,

Experience exceptional oral surgery care at The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A. Visit us at our Hattiesburg office, located at 6284 US Highway 98, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, or our Laurel office at 325 South 13th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440. You can also call our Hattiesburg office at (601) 271-2356 or our Laurel office at (601) 425-2356.. From dental implants to wisdom teeth removal, our experienced team is ready to restore your smile — schedule your appointment today!